Learning With Technology
FAMILY GUIDE Partnering with families for educational excellence
Technology as a Tool
DCE Technology Overview The goal of the Information Technology Department is to provide resources and services to support the D.C. Everest School District’s goals and objectives and offer educational opportunities fostering the development of lifelong learners. Our district vision for technology is to provide opportunities for all students to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary for productive participation in an evolving, technological society. Technology is recognized as a valuable tool for students to reach greater levels of understanding and expand methods of communicating with others around the world.
Preparing Our Students To prepare our students for the 21st century, we adapt our curriculum and instructional strategies to match the pace of technology and the needs of the workplace. We encourage our students and teachers to take risks —  to try new things, develop innovative means of instruction and embrace diverse learning and presentation methods. Our district is willing to push boundaries and seek innovative means of breaking down barriers that are holding back the next generation. Technology is one of the tools we use to prepare our students for the rapidly evolving opportunities of the 21st century.
Preparing Our Students
Engaged Learners
One-to-One Learning Program The D.C. Everest School District launched the One-to-One Learning Program during the 2014-15 school year by providing iPads for all teachers, administrators and students. Staff received professional learning to help them transition their practices to reflect a more student-centered digital learning environment. All K-12 students have iPads to use throughout the school year to enhance their educational experience. Today’s students need a learning environment where they are able to think critically, connect and collaborate with others, and create relevant, highquality content. Students have grown up in a digital world and many are already fluent users of mobile devices. The iPads are just one of many tools in our teachers’ toolboxes. We have a wireless infrastructure that supports this expanded learning environment.
Equity By providing increased access to technology for all students, teachers and students have the opportunity to participate in rich learning experiences beyond the classroom walls. Teachers will continue to teach as students experience, connect, and interact with the world in ways traditional textbooks and curriculum alone can’t provide. Skills acquired through this type of learning will allow students to expand their thinking and better prepare them for college and career readiness. Our commitment to the One-to-One Learning Program at D.C. Everest School District will focus on meeting the needs of our students in a personalized learning environment.
Equity in Education
Tips for Success
Create a Plan Together, families can address how to have a healthy relationship with technology and positive Internet usage. Student iPads are an opportunity for the entire family to participate in digital learning experiences. It is important to create a plan with your student when, where, why, and how he/she can access the iPad. Set up a charging station in a common area of the home or in the parent or guardian’s bedroom to monitor use of technology when at home. • Know your student’s passcodes and passwords • Limit screen time for entertainment usage • Discuss appropriate use of social media and review his/her iPad regularly Find resources to help create a plan on our website: www.dce.k12.wi.us/technology
Talk With Your Student Having conversations with your student about how he/she is using technology in the classroom will not only help you better understand today’s learning environment, but also provide you with an opportunity to engage with your learner. Chances are, your student is excited to share how technology is being used and wants to showcase what he/she is learning. Likewise, he/she may have some concerns about how technology is being used in the classroom, which is also important information for parents to know. These conversations give your student an opportunity to “be the teacher” and share what they know with you. Find conversation starter ideas on our website: www.dce.k12.wi.us/technology
Tips for Success
Privacy
We are committed to protecting student information and are proud to partner with a company like Apple, that vows to never sell or share information. Using Managed Apple IDs allows us to control information and how it is used. We only purchase and deliver apps that will enhance the learning experience and keep student information safe. We use Microsoft 365 for email accounts. This adds an extra layer of security for students and gives them access to Microsoft tools on their device and at home.
The D.C. Everest School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, creed, pregnancy, marital status, parental status, sexual orientation, sex, (including transgender status, change of sex or gender identity), or physical, mental, emotional, or learning disability (“Protected Classes�) in any of its student programs and activities.